Most electric fireplaces are strictly “inside-only.” But if you’re trying to make your patio or covered porch feel like a real outdoor living room, the Sideline Touchstone 80017 is one of the rare models designed to work both indoors and outdoors.
Yes, You Can Have an Outdoor Electric Fireplace!
Touchstone built this unit for homeowners who want that fireplace focal point on a patio, lanai, or porch—without the hassle of gas lines, soot, or hauling firewood. It’s water-resistant and includes a GFCI (ground-fault) plug, which is exactly what you want around moisture and outdoor outlets.
Another smart detail: you can mount it higher on the wall so it stays away from splashes or ground moisture. It works well on exterior surfaces like stucco, brick, siding, or stone, and the wall-mount bracket is included, so you’re not hunting for extra hardware.
Even though it’s not super tall, the 50-inch length gives you that long, modern “linear fireplace” look that instantly upgrades a blank wall. In other words, it’s big enough to feel intentional, but still manageable to hang.
Bonus Features That Make It Easy (and Fun) to Use
Just like Touchstone’s indoor models, this one is built for convenience. It comes with a remote, so you can turn on the flames from inside the house, from your seating area, or from across the patio when you’re entertaining.
You also get an automatic timer. Set it for a quick 30 minutes while you’re winding down, or let it run for hours during a get-together—then have it shut off automatically so you don’t have to remember later.
That’s the real magic here: it makes the patio feel like an extension of the home. Same cozy vibe, just outside.
The One Big Downside
Here’s the honest truth: this specific outdoor-rated unit doesn’t produce heat. You’re buying it for ambiance and visual impact—glow, flame movement, and that “fireplace moment” on your wall—not for warmth.
Note: This is where an outdoor infrared space heater is a perfect partner. You can place it closer to your seating area, warm guests comfortably, and still keep the fireplace mounted where it looks best. Bonus: remote control + timer makes it easy to manage.
On the flip side, the “no heat” thing comes with a surprising perk: it’s extremely cheap to run. You’re basically paying for LED lighting, which is low-cost compared to gas refills or wood bundles. No ash cleanup, no smoke, no mess—just click the remote and enjoy.
Want to see how the multi-color flames look in real life? This quick clip gives a better feel than photos. And honestly, since it’s outdoors, you’re usually viewing it from several feet away—so the overall effect matters more than hyper-real “log detail.”
Get More Information
Touchstone 80017 Indoor/Outdoor Electric Fireplace Specs
- Dimensions: 6 x 50″ Wide x 18″ Tall X 6″ Deep
- Fire Box Dimensions (for recessing): 47.6″ Wide x 16.75″ Tall x 5.25″ Deep
- Frame Color: Black
- Weight: 45 lbs
- Voltage: 120V
- Amperes: 11 and up
- Flame Colors: Blue, Red/Orange, Combination of All 3 Colors
- Flame Settings: 5 Levels, from high flames to glowing embers
- Get it Here
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can this electric fireplace be installed outdoors in the rain?
It’s water-resistant and designed for outdoor use, but you’ll still get the best longevity when it’s installed in a protected location like a covered patio, porch, or under an overhang.
Does the Touchstone 80017 produce heat?
No—this model is for ambiance only. If you want warmth, pair it with an outdoor infrared heater so you can direct heat toward your seating area.
Can I recess this unit into a wall?
Yes. The spec list includes firebox dimensions specifically for recessing, which makes planning much easier.
How high should I mount an outdoor electric fireplace?
High enough to avoid ground moisture and splashing, but low enough to feel like a “real fireplace focal point.” Many people mount it above a patio console or outdoor media cabinet.
Is it expensive to run?
Not really. Since there’s no heater, you’re mainly powering LED flame effects, which are typically very low-cost compared to heating appliances.
Reputable Resources for More Information
- Touchstone 80017 Product Page (Official)
- CPSC Home & Outdoor Safety Guidance
- NFPA Fire Safety Resources
Conclusion
If you’ve wanted a fireplace vibe outside—without the mess of wood, the cost of gas refills, or the commitment of a built-in masonry project—the Touchstone 80017 is a genuinely practical option. You get a modern 50-inch linear look, multiple flame colors and brightness settings, remote control convenience, and an outdoor-ready design. Just remember: it’s ambiance-only, so if you want warmth, pair it with a dedicated outdoor heater and you’ll have a patio setup that feels like an actual “outdoor living room.”